Home School Life Journal

Zooland, part 6: The Zoo Curator and Other Jobs at the Zoo

Katie did this lesson while Steven and I were off to one of my doctor's appointments. Some have heard of museum curators, but not have heard of zoo curators.

What do zoo curators do?

plans the work of the keepers, the veternarians and other zoo workers

creates animal displays

inspects the animals

takes care of any special problems the animals or the staff has

orders food and supplies needed at the zoo

acquires new animals

Depending on the size of the zoo, there may be multiple curators, each specializing in a different type of animal. A majority of curators start their animal careers as keepers. A keeper can move into a curator position by demonstrating leadership skills, as well as knowledge in the particular species she would like to manage.

Other jobs at the zoo:

The zoo's director makes sure that the zoo runs smoothly. He also creates new animal displays, solves problems with the animals, works with the community and schools and finds ways to raise money for new zoo exhibits.

The veterinarian cares for all aspects of the health of the animals.

Guards protect the animals from harm and make sure the rules of the zoo are followed

Electricians keep everything electrical, such as lights, motors and heaters, running smoothly, making repairs and maintenance precautions as needed.

Zoos have mechanics to fix the cars, lawn movers, trucks and anything else that runs on gasoline.

Zoos use a tremendous amount of water to clean the animals, wash down the cages and give them baths. Water is also used in ponds, gardens and public rest rooms The plumber makes repairs and follows maintenance procedures.

The zoo director and curators have secretaries that help them with the work of the office, such as typing letters, answering the phone and filing papers.

Ticket booth operators clerks in the gift shops, tour guides and animal trainers also work for zoos.

James' (age 12), sketch of a Meerkat

As with each lesson, have your students pick another animal to study. As before, have them organize the information they learn to make a sign for the animal's cage. They then need to research the habitat needed for this animal. What other animals live in this type of habitat? This might lead to the next animal study.